According to the Associated Press, more than one million people flooded Washington, D.C., to get a glimpse of the first African American president, and hear his message to the world.

Abby Dart, resident of Harbor Springs and former deputy director for Michiganders for Obama, said she was pleased with Obama's message of unity through his inaugural address.

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"I thought he hit the right tone," she said. "I expected him to say, 'together we will be a stronger nation' - his entire campaign was inclusive - it was about 'we' instead of 'I.'

"It was very inspirational."

Bill Lovett, chair of the Charlevoix County Democratic Party, said he felt Obama's address was moving.

"The country's in a very deep crisis - he had to do this (address) in a somber way, and offer directions and guidelines for us to understand where he was trying to lead us, and I think he succeeded," Lovett said.

John Haggard, former chair of the Charlevoix Republican Party, said he watched the events from home and was pleased to hear Obama's tough message to terrorists.

"When it came to telling our enemies that want to kill us that he's not going to stand for it … he'll stand behind the military and protect our way of life - that's a strong message," he said. "I may not agree with him, but I support the president of the United States."

Gordie Bourland, chair of the Emmet County Democratic Party, said he also enjoyed hearing Obama's take on national security, as well as his stance on the importance of an accountable government.

"He addressed the fact that we can keep our country safe and abide by the constitution," he said. "The government has to be held to account so people will have trust in it again.

"His messages carried over from the campaign - I'm glad he didn't shy away from it."

Jim Alton, a local Republican and director of the Emmet County Veteran Affairs Office, said, although he disagrees strongly with Obama, he is hopeful that the new president's solutions may work.

"The country certainly needs a new start," he said. "This is a critical time in our country, and the president needs all the support he can get."

Alyssa McCormack, a 17-year-old Charlevoix High School senior, who attended the inauguration in Washington D.C. said she was overwhelmed by the experience.

"It was more than I thought it was going to be; seeing how everyone came together as one," she said. "When everyone is together like that, they all have an effect on one another - it was like the party of one big family."

Dart said, although she was only able to watch the events unfold through a live telecast at home, she still felt like she was a part of the history that was being made.

"It was really thrilling. I could hardly believe that it was actually happening - I kind of have to pinch myself," she added. "I'm really proud of the American people for choosing someone like Barack for his character and strength - I think it's a great day in American history.

"He's the right man for the times."

Ryan Nelson, 31, of Petoskey who helped organize local events for Obama's campaign, said he traveled to the inauguration to get re-energized for the future.

"We have a lot of hard work to do and that all starts now," he said. "It's time to roll up our sleeves - I look forward to it."